The Android app price drops include FINAL FANTASY VII for , Cafeteria Nipponica for .25, Skul: The Hero Slayer for , Cafe Master Story for , Beastie Bay DX for , and Backrooms for free.
Microsoft's design strategies continue to influence users towards its Edge browser, as revealed in a study by Dr. Harry Brignull and Cennydd Bowles, published by Mozilla. The researchers tested Windows 10 and 11 across the US, UK, India, and Germany, focusing on whether users could download, set, and maintain a default browser other than Edge without interference. Findings showed that users encountered harmful design patterns that hindered their ability to choose alternative browsers. For example, searching for "download Chrome" on Bing led to Edge promotions, and downloading Chrome triggered an Edge banner. In Windows 11, the setup prompts users to allow Edge to import data from other browsers, with the accept option more visible than the decline option. Additionally, Microsoft's Copilot and Windows Backup tool opened links in Edge regardless of the user's default browser choice, resetting the default browser to Edge during migration without consent. The study noted regional differences, with fewer harmful patterns in Germany due to the EU's Digital Markets Act, although some issues persisted. The researchers recommend eliminating these harmful design patterns and advocate for global regulatory enforcement.
Steam's Games Made in Sweden sale features notable titles such as Vermintide, Darktide, Payday, Valheim, Amnesia, and Satisfactory, with many available at discounts. Vermintide 2 is priced at £2.34. Three microstrategy games highlighted in the sale are Bad North, Kingdom Two Crowns, and The Battle of Polytopia, all available for under £10. Bad North involves defending islands from Viking invasions, Kingdom Two Crowns combines town-building with exploration and co-op gameplay, and The Battle of Polytopia offers quick 4x gameplay with 16 civilizations and various modes. Some notable titles, like Arc Raiders, are not included in the sale.
The European Union has sanctioned VK, the Russian technology firm behind VKontakte and its subsidiary MAX, due to their involvement in cyber activities and providing personal data to Russian authorities against dissenters. These sanctions were formalized on July 13 and align with a broader effort involving the UK, targeting individuals and entities linked to Russia's cyber operations. The MAX application is developed under the oversight of Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB). Additionally, Apple's removal of VK applications from its App Store has prompted a response from the Kremlin, with government spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicating a need for clarification from Apple on this decision.
The author reflects on their experience playing Dishonored and its sequel, detailing their initial chaotic playstyle that led to a High Chaos ending. They express a desire to adopt a stealth approach in the game, facing challenges from the Chaos system and the deteriorating state of the city. In Dishonored 2, they aim for a flawless run without kills or detections, which requires extensive planning and execution. The Clockwork Mansion mission tests their resolve, particularly when confronting the character Kirin Jindosh and solving the Jindosh Lock puzzle. The author ultimately finds satisfaction in solving the puzzle independently, using creativity and notes to aid in their success.
The Epic Games Store is offering two free titles this week: Nova Lands and Tattoo Tycoon, available until July 16, when Echo Generation and Luto will replace them. The July Humble Choice lineup includes eight games: Sea of Stars: Sunset Edition, TUNIC, Neon White, Police Simulator: Patrol Officers, Drop Duchy - Complete Edition, Sledders, Dicefolk, and Our Adventurer Guild, available for purchase until August 4. Additionally, Humble has released two game bundles: the Narrative Bundle, featuring 12 games, and the Squad Goals bundle, which includes cooperative titles. The GOG store has ended its DRM-free summer sale but continues with standard promotions. Availability and pricing may vary by region.
Tom McKay and Luke Dale are the voice actors for Henry of Skalitz and Lord Hans Capon in Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2. Luke Dale expressed disappointment that his role in the game did not lead to more opportunities in the industry. He has since turned to streaming on Twitch, where he has gained 72,000 followers, as a way to connect with fans and share his passion for gaming. Dale encourages other actors to consider streaming as a potential avenue for engagement.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance is being adapted into a board game by Czech Games, which is available for preorder. The board game aims to capture the essence of the video game while introducing complex mechanics that challenge players with strategic decisions. It is set to launch in the first quarter of next year and is expected to appeal to both fans of the RPG genre and newcomers. The game will offer a narrative-driven experience that encourages collaboration and competition.
Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 has sold over 6 million copies in a year and a half since its release, compared to the original's six years to reach the same milestone. Deep Silver, the game's publisher, expressed gratitude to the community and announced plans for two new open-world RPGs, including one set in the Kingdom Come universe and another in Middle-earth.
Creative Assembly is developing Medieval 3, a new installment in the Total War series, which is currently in its early stages. The studio is engaging with fans through preproduction livestreams and a survey to gather input on which factions to include in the game. Key factors for faction inclusion are recognition, uniqueness of starting situation, and potential for distinctive gameplay mechanics. Certain factions, including England, France, the Holy Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Kingdom of Jerusalem, and the Sultanate of Rum, are confirmed, while feedback is sought for smaller factions like the Italian city-states, Scandinavian kingdoms, and notable Muslim nations. Factions that will not be included are the Russian Principalities, the Mongol Empire, and the Papal States, the latter being considered too unique in playstyle.
